By Harriet Tornguvan
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded significant operational successes across the country in its ongoing military operations between December 3 and 12, 2025, neutralising terrorists, rescuing kidnapped victims and disrupting criminal networks in multiple theatres.
Briefing journalists in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the operations conducted in collaboration with other security agencies were aimed at enhancing national security, promoting stability and creating a safe environment for economic activities to thrive.
According to him, troops sustained pressure on terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and oil thieves through coordinated kinetic and non-kinetic operations, while also keeping the public informed on developments across the theatres of operation.
In the North-East, troops of Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), supported by air and hybrid forces as well as local security groups, denied Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists freedom of action. Operations carried out in parts of Borno and Adamawa states led to the neutralisation of several terrorists, the arrest of 22 collaborators and the rescue of 15 kidnapped victims. Weapons, vehicles and motorcycles were recovered, while terrorist camps were destroyed. An air reconnaissance mission around the Kunshon area of Borno State also provided critical intelligence that supported ground operations.
In the North-West, troops of Operation Fasan Yamma (OPFY) maintained a high operational tempo across Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Jigawa, Niger and Kano states. Several terrorists were neutralised, 18 suspects arrested and 10 kidnapped victims rescued. Security forces also arrested a medical doctor and an arms dealer linked to terrorist networks, following credible intelligence. Air reconnaissance missions further enhanced troop effectiveness in key locations.
Operations in the North-Central under Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) saw troops respond swiftly to distress calls in Plateau and Kaduna states, resulting in the neutralisation of extremists, the arrest of suspects and the rescue of 14 kidnapped victims. Over ₦6.6 million in cash, believed to be ransom proceeds and logistics funds, was recovered alongside weapons.
Similarly, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) recorded successes in Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, Kwara states and the Federal Capital Territory. Several kidnappers were arrested, extremists neutralised and kidnapped victims rescued, with arms, ammunition and motorcycles recovered during the operations.
In the South-South, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) dealt a major blow to oil theft and illegal refining activities. Troops foiled oil theft valued at over ₦15.6 million, destroyed seven illegal refining sites and arrested dozens of suspects across Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Imo and Cross River states. Arms and ammunition were also recovered during the operations.
In the South-East, troops of Operation Udo Ka (OPUK) carried out raids on suspected kidnappers’ hideouts and criminal enclaves in Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Benue and Cross River states. Fifteen kidnapped victims were rescued, while arms, ammunition and weapon-fabrication tools were recovered. Eleven illegal immigrants were also handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service.
Major General Onoja reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to deny criminal elements freedom of action nationwide, describing the achievements as a testament to the courage, resilience and professionalism of Nigerian troops.
He assured Nigerians that the Defence Headquarters would continue to intensify operations to safeguard lives and property, while commending officers and men involved for their dedication to national security.
